Irene "Big Mama" Johnston was called home on December 1st, 2024. She is joyfully reunited with her Lord and Savior and her late husband Billy.

Irene was born to Bob and Nellie Laird in Shady Grove near Taylorsville and Laurel, Mississippi on January 2nd, 1939. She was the "baby" of 8 closely knit siblings, and had a loving, simple, yet hard scrabble childhood. Her parents ultimately settled in Monroe, Louisiana where Irene met and married the love of her life, Billy. After a short time in Owensboro, Kentucky, Irene and her young family settled in Slidell, Louisiana where she remained approximately 60 years. Big Mama stayed true to her simple roots and devoted her life to caring for her family. We lovingly remember her soft and sweet southern voice, her amazing country cooking, and the peace she had about life's challenges. She was quick to deflect a tough situation by shrugging and saying "c'est la guerre".

Big Mama is survived by her children Melinda, Blake (wife Gaye), and Kyle (wife Heather); 11 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; and many special nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

The family wishes to thank the amazing staff at Summer House Park Provence that lovingly helped care for her in her final years. A private service and interment will take place at a later date at the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery. In remembrance of Irene the family asks you to simply Love Your Neighbor today.